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Heide Museum of Modern Art - Best of all worlds

Melbourne’s diversity of galleries, restaurants and parks contribute to her reputation as Australia’s cultural centre and most liveable city. They attract visitors from all around the world. Nothing exemplifies this reputation more than the Heide Museum of Modern Art, renowned for its collections of modern and contemporary art. Additionally, Heide’s expansive gardens and grounds, set amid extensive, picturesque parks adjoining the Yarra River are popular for social events, weddings and general photography.

A part of history

John and Sunday Reed took up residence at Heidelberg in 1934 in a Victorian farmhouse they called Heide. Extending through to the 1950s, Heide became an “idyllic refuge of inspiration for artists and intellectuals”. Notably, Sidney Nolan painted his famous Ned Kelly series in Heide’s dining room. Over the years, the Reeds nurtured generations of artists and writers including Nolan, Albert Tucker, Joy Hester and Danila Vassilieff who all formed part of the “Heide Circle”. Meetings at Heide are credited with kick starting Australia’s modern art movement.

Heide II, the Reeds’ second home, “a gallery to be lived in” was completed in 1967 and quickly gained a reputation as an iconic example of modernist architecture. In 1980, the Reeds sold Heide to the Victorian Government, fulfilling their long-held ambition of leaving behind a museum of modern art as their legacy.

Contemporary changes

Heide III, the largest of the dedicated gallery spaces, originally constructed in 1992, re-opened to the public in July 2006. The multi-million dollar project, funded by the Federal and State governments, and philanthropic trusts, promotes the work of up-and-coming young Australian artists, but also honours the past. It is a far cry from the first farmhouse. The 18 month redevelopment includes the Sidney Myer Education Centre, restoration work on the gardens and sculpture park, and the addition of the Albert & Barbara Tucker Gallery and Tucker Study Centre.

The Heide Museum of Modern Art is a popular venue for small and large events, providing a special experience, “unique to Heide”. The Heide Café provides a charming dining experience and can be booked for both large and small functions. Functions, including weddings, can be held throughout the extensive grounds or in the gardens including the newly restored Kitchen Garden or Rose Walk Pavilion.

Saward Dawson and Heide

Saward Dawson has provided audit and assurance services to Heide for many years and has also assisted in the area of government grant accountability. In addition, we provide assistance with meeting the financial reporting obligations imposed by the Corporations Act. Recently, we also reviewed the impact of implementing the International Accounting Standards.

For the art lover, Heide constantly provides innovative and thought provoking exhibitions. Heide is located at 7 Templestowe Road, Bulleen. Its informative website, www.heide.com.au, contains a full list of coming events and exhibitions.

With stunning exhibitions, award-winning architecture, breathtaking gardens, the marvellous café and only 15 minutes from the city centre, Heide is surely one of Melbourne’s most treasured attractions.